The young pacer delivered another standout performance in the second ODI against New Zealand in Mirpur, where he claimed 5 wickets for 32 runs in 10 overs, including a maiden, to help Bangladesh level the series.
The 23-year-old maintained remarkable pace throughout his spell, consistently bowling above 140 km/h despite challenging weather conditions, with temperatures hovering around 35–36°C and high humidity.
Notably, 59 of his 60 deliveries were clocked above 140 km/h, including 19 deliveries exceeding 145 km/h, underlining his ability to sustain intensity across a full spell.
Rana had earlier picked up 5 for 24 against Pakistan last month, and he replicated a similar impact against New Zealand, unsettling the batters with his raw pace and control.
His performance earned him the Player of the Match award, while New Zealand opener Nick Kelly, who scored 83, also acknowledged the challenge posed by the young pacer.
Speaking after the match, Rana credited his fitness routine for maintaining such consistency.
“Alhamdulillah, Allah has kept me fit. Outside of practice or during sessions, I work with the fitness trainer and discuss how to improve and build my fitness so that I feel good while bowling and don’t get tired during matches,” he said.
He added that much of the work happens during off-days. “In my free time, I focus on things like gym work, running, and recovery. I try to make the most of time outside matches to improve these areas.”
Rana also reflected on his turnaround after a difficult outing in the first ODI, where he conceded 65 runs for just one wicket.
“Every match doesn’t go well for a cricketer. The previous game wasn’t a good day for me. I tried to execute my plans but couldn’t. This time, I tried again and it worked properly,” he explained.
